The former Parkhead captain stated his desire to retain the post on a permanent basis immediately after replacing the ousted Tony Mowbray last week.

“If you ask all the lads, he’s a leader,” the Scotland midfielder said.

“He has been there and done it all, and the players all respect him as well, so he would be a great choice.

“There was a lot of pressure on him in the first game but it was a good start. We played good football and looked an attacking team that was going to score goals.”

Your Comments

COMMENT RULES: Comments that are judged to be defamatory, abusive or in bad taste are not acceptable and contributors who consistently fall below certain criteria will be permanently blacklisted. The moderator will not enter into debate with individual contributors and the moderator’s decision is final. It is Belfast Telegraph policy to close comments on court cases, tribunals and active legal investigations. We may also close comments on articles which are being targeted for abuse. Problems with commenting? customercare@belfasttelegraph.co.uk